Powerful Brings Coastal Character to Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative’s Website Design
NEWPORT, NC — Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative’s (CCEC) redesigned website puts its guiding slogan, “Powered by our members!”, into action. Built by Powerful, the site introduces new features that highlight member ownership, community pride, and innovation.
Founded in 1940 by fishermen and farmers, CCEC still carries that same determination today. The cooperative now powers more than 36,000 members across Carteret, Craven, Jones and Onslow counties and continues to look for new ways to serve. The redesigned website reflects that drive, giving members a modern platform that strengthens engagement and highlights the values that set CCEC apart.
“The Carteret-Craven Electric Co-op team was great to work with!” said Annie Watson, Project Manager at Powerful. “They had a clear vision on their website goals, and the premium route allowed for a custom design to elevate their online presence.”
The new premium homepage opens with a video hero section that sets a welcoming tone for visitors. The footage features lineworkers, members and familiar coastal scenery, underscoring both the cooperative’s workforce and its connection to the region. Paired with bold visuals and streamlined navigation, the design conveys a modern identity while keeping the member experience at the center.
“Pairing call-to-action buttons with promotional spaces on the homepage allowed for top tasks to be easily accessible, while having dedicated space to spotlight programs and initiatives,” Watson said.
The website also brings fresh attention to CCEC’s programs. A dedicated section for the Carteret-Craven Electric Foundation (CCEF) showcases the cooperative’s investment in local schools, nonprofits and families through Operation Round Up. A news section keeps members updated on outages, safety tips and cooperative announcements, ensuring the content stays relevant and timely.
PDF-based processes that once required extra steps have been replaced with online forms. Members can now apply for rebate incentives, students can submit scholarship applications and families can participate in the Member Photo Contest directly on the site. These tools make participation easier while reducing administrative tasks for staff. The Capital Credits Lookup Tool further enhances the experience by allowing members to search their name and quickly learn if they have unclaimed funds, reinforcing the cooperative principle of member economic participation.
“The design is unique and representative of their brand and community, which pairs nicely with the beautiful illustrated footer,” Watson said.
The illustrated footer reflects CCEC’s coastal character with elements like the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, Emerald Isle Bridge, farmland and beaches. This detail ties the modern layout back to tradition and community identity, giving the site a distinct signature.
CCEC’s redesigned site strengthens engagement, celebrates the cooperative difference and provides members with tools that make participation simple and meaningful.
About Powerful
Powerful is a leader in designing human-centered website designs for utility companies, enhancing digital interactions through innovative design and advanced technology. Their mission is to build lasting partnerships with utility organizations by creating engaging, visitor-friendly digital experiences. Specializing in functionality, visitor experience, and accessibility, Powerful tailors each project to the unique needs of their clients, ensuring websites are visually appealing, intuitive, and easy to navigate. With a focus on humanizing websites, their team is dedicated to understanding the specific challenges and goals of each client, crafting solutions that foster meaningful connections and drive engagement. Through a meticulous design process and commitment to excellence, Powerful helps utilities connect more effectively with their communities, providing websites that both inform and inspire.
About Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative
Carteret-Craven Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit, member-owned cooperative headquartered in Newport, North Carolina. Founded in 1940, CCEC provides electricity to more than 36,000 members across Carteret, Craven, Jones and Onslow counties. Guided by the cooperative principles, CCEC’s mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy while embracing innovation and service excellence.
